British Pound Sterling

Mark Hallion International Showjumper  

Professional

winterGrey

INTERNATIONAL SHOWJUMPER MARK HALLION

Home   News
Two young showjumpers aspire to be first mixed-heritage British Olympic riders
Eleanor Jones 
Eleanor Jones
16 June, 2022 12:27
  

Credit: Sportsfot
 British Equestrian Federation Diversity in equestrian sport

TWO young showjumpers have ambitions to be the first riders of colour to represent Britain at an Olympics – as British Equestrian (BEF) has pledged to improve diversity and inclusion in the industry.

The BEF and its 18 member bodies have signed the “unity pledge”, which commits to making equestrian “representative of the diverse communities around us”, to grow a welcoming community for all united by the love of horses, and to promote the physical and mental benefits of equestrianism.

Home   News
Two young showjumpers aspire to be first mixed-heritage British Olympic riders

Myrtle Hallion is based at Blackwater Equestrian in West Wellow.

She is the step-daughter of international rider Mark Hallion.

Her mother Claire Hallion said: “Myrtle started riding at the age of five inspired by her stepfather she has gone onto being the youngest riders on the Global Champions Tour the equivalent to (Formula 1). 

“Myrtle has not only achieved such great things at such a young age she has also been signed to a top modelling agency in London showing she does not only have the ability in sport but looks good doing it. 

Myrtle Hallion, 14, making waves in equestrian and modelling

I started 7 years ago after completing my apprenticeship at Blackwater and have never left. 

Being a good groom is about hard work, being able to organize your day, and using your head. You need an eye for detail and have some skin on your nose. That means, you have to be a little bit tough and be able to handle some stress and pressure.  There will for sure be times when people are rude to you. I have been lucky enough to work under Mark and Claire from the start and I have learned to be very organised and take everything with ease. 

The aspect of the job which I enjoy most is travelling to international shows. The weeks leading up to an international competition mainly involve preparation work such as packing, ensuring the horses are fit, happy and up to date with all their needs including flu and EHV vaccinations. We take the horse’s temperatures for 5 days prior to arriving at the showground to be sure they are healthy and we also check their shoes are all well-fitting and have stud holes.

Over the years I have added to my packing list with items that you learn make a difference to the horse’s experience. For example, one of the horses likes to be alone in his own space and so I take a stable banner to provide him with privacy which helps to keep him much more settled. Little adjustments for each individual can make such a difference to their performance and their health and well-being.




 

Holly Applin 

evoke 

Hofmag K8

Krismar

The Longines Global Champions Tour brings together the top show jumpers in the world to compete in prestigious locations for unprecedented prize money.

longines 

Tommy Hilfiger 

Unibed 

As a French sports saddle designer, we want to reinvent high-end Saddlery by combining innovation and modern style. Innovation and technology are the inspiration behind Voltaire Design.

Holly Applin

Head Groom/Yard Manager,

Gallery